Fall is an ideal season of the year for homeowners to be performing a number of basic upkeep or maintenance tasks, and one area that should not go overlooked during these efforts is fire safety. A simple proactive approach to fire safety is valuable to your entire family, especially as we head into the colder parts of the year and various warmth items or devices will be used more regularly.
At Incognitoes, we're proud to offer an industry-leading selection of in-home fire extinguisher and extinguisher cover products, helping combine fire safety and attentiveness with style and convenience all in one. Here are some basic tips from our professionals on fall fire safety considerations within your home.
Check Extinguishers
First and foremost, after a long summer where fire extinguishers may not have been top-of-mind, it's important to re-check all extinguishers in your home to ensure they are fully charged and ready for use if needed. This includes checking the pressure gauge and confirming that the pin is intact.
As you're doing this, you should also consider the age of your extinguishers - most have a lifespan of 5-15 years, so if yours are older than this, it may be time for replacements or at least professional inspection.
Smoke and CO2 Detectors
Two other products that are vital for any home - and are potentially life-saving in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide leak - are smoke and CO2 detectors. Fall is a great time to ensure these are working properly by testing them, changing batteries, and replacing any that may be outdated or not functioning correctly.
With your smoke detectors, you should be testing them monthly and replacing batteries at least yearly. For CO2 detectors, similar rules apply - replace the batteries at least annually, but also be aware that they have a limited lifespan of around 5-7 years before needing replacement.
Fireplace Safety
For those with fireplaces or wood-burning stoves in their homes, fall is an important time to ensure these are ready for use. Have a professional inspect and clean your fireplace or stove to ensure it's safe and efficient, and consider installing a spark guard to prevent embers from escaping.
It's also crucial to have proper ventilation when using fireplaces or wood-burning stoves - make sure there are no obstructions in the chimney or vents that could cause dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide.
Electrical System Checks
This is also a great time of year to have a professional inspect your home's electrical system for any potential fire hazards. Look out for frayed cords, overloaded outlets, and other signs of wear or damage that could lead to a dangerous situation.
You should also be mindful of how many appliances and devices are plugged into one outlet - if it seems crowded or overloaded, consider using a power strip instead to prevent any potential fire hazards.
Basic Cleaning
There are also a few areas of the home where some basic fall cleaning will go a long way toward fire safety, including:
Dryer vents: Make sure to clean out the lint in your dryer vent, as this is a common cause of house fires.
Stove and oven: Clean any built-up grease or food debris from your stove and oven, which could potentially catch fire if left unattended.
Space heaters: If you use space heaters in your home during the colder months, be sure to dust them off and inspect the cords and plugs for any damage before using them.
Chimney: If you have a chimney, make sure to clean out any debris or bird nests that may have accumulated during the summer.
Firewood Storage
If you plan on using firewood to heat your home, it's important to store it properly to prevent any potential fire hazards. Keep the wood at least 25 feet away from your home and make sure it is elevated off the ground.
Additionally, be aware of any pests or insects that may be hiding in the woodpile - spiders, termites, and other bugs can cause damage to your home or even start a fire.
Consider Spark Arresters or Heat Source Covers
For those who want to take their fire safety to the next level, consider installing spark arresters on chimneys or heat source covers over wood-burning stoves. These devices help prevent sparks from escaping and starting fires in the surrounding area.
Fall is a great time to perform some basic fire safety checks and maintenance tasks around your home. By being proactive and taking these simple steps, you can help ensure the safety of your family and home during the colder months.
At Incognitoes, we are dedicated to helping families stay safe and secure in their homes, no matter what season it is. Visit our website today to browse our selection of fire extinguishers, covers, and other safety products. Stay safe this fall!
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